Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Evergreen, Coniferous, Softwood
Plant Family
Pinaceae
Tree Category
Forest Tree, Conifer, Timber Tree, Shade Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Species type (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. menziesii, the Coast Douglas Fir)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 6 (Interior variety) or 7 through 9 (Coastal variety).
About This Tree
A massive, long-lived conifer with a pyramidal juvenile form that becomes more cylindrical and flat-topped with age. Features slightly drooping lower branches and distinctive long-lived evergreen foliage with a dense crown.
Leaf Characteristics
Flat, needle-like leaves approximately 1 inch long; spiral arrangement but often appearing two-ranked; dark green to blue-green color; soft to the touch with two white stomatal bands on the underside.
Bark Characteristics
Smooth and gray-brown with resin blisters when young, becoming thick, deeply furrowed, and corky with reddish-brown fissures as the tree matures.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to western North America, ranging from west-central British Columbia south to central California
Growing Season
Year-round evergreen foliage; pollination occurs in early spring (March-May); cones mature in late summer/autumn; active growth peak in spring through early summer.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade when young; requires well-drained soil; medium water needs; moderately drought-tolerant once established but performs best with consistent moisture.
Mature Size
Height: 70-200+ feet (cultivated trees are usually smaller than forest specimens); Spread: 20-50 feet; Growth rate: Fast; Lifespan: 500-1,000 years in the wild.
Special Characteristics
Highly valued for timber (lumber/plywood); famous for its cones which feature unique three-pointed 'mouse tail' bracts; high wind resistance; excellent carbon sequestration.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides critical habitat and nesting sites for owls and raptors; seeds are a primary food source for squirrels, chipmunks, and songbirds; foliage is browsed by deer and elk.